The Noble Piece Prize

'Nostalgic' (feat. Jess Tomey)

We are back! And what better way to revive the series than with our dear friend Jess Tomey (now living it up in New Zealand!), who gives us her heartfelt thoughts on nostalgia, as we share some beautiful music that brings back our most treasured musical memories.

'Mischievous' (feat. Jess Conway)

Join Dan, Ben, and mezzo-soprano Jess Conway in all manner of tricks, pranks, and general naughtiness. From opera to bluegrass, we share some of our favourite examples of mischief in music, as well as talking about some crazy and silly experiences in our own lives.

'Tasteless' (feat. Kara Taylor)

Join us and RNCM cellist Kara Taylor, as we share with each other some of the most dreadful, cringey and cheesy pieces of music that we have had the misfortune of discovering. From André Rieu to Andrew Lloyd Webber, we strive to find the epitome of tastelessness (and are ashamed to say that we quite enjoyed it).

'Disney' (feat. Ciaran Wilson)

UoM medicine student and keen singer Ciaran Wilson joins us to share some of his experiences working at Walt Disney World in Florida (including what goes on behind the scenes). We shed a tear as we decipher what it is that gives Disney/Pixar music that special nostalgic sparkle, as well as talking everything from a cappella to alligators.

'Triumphant' (feat. Luke Jones)

In this episode, we are joined by RNCM pianist Luke Jones, in a discussion about music that can express a feeling of triumph. This can manifest in many different ways from militant nationalism and the victory of nations in battle, to childlike innocence and the victorious wisdom that one feels as they grow older. Either way, triumph usually spells ending or closure, and we hope our choices of music get that message across.